"In a grand pewayangan summit, leaders seated around a large, ornate table. Among them were leaders known for their supernatural powers, Prabu Palgunadi of Paranggelung, Prabu Matswapati of Wirata, and Prabu Jangkung Mardeya of Paranggubarja. So, welcome to the Diplomatic Circus, where the most powerful leaders gather to solve issues… or at least pretend to.Prabu Palgunadi: (pounding the table) We must address climate change immediately! Our planet is burning by mining blocks, especially the one called mining block 404!Prabu Matswati: (nodding) Absolutely, but first, let’s discuss the trade tariffs. My kingdom needs more rise imports.Prabu Palgunadi: Rise? We’re talking about the future of our planet!Prabu Matswati: (shrugging) Well, my voters love rice. No rice, no votes.Prabu Jangkung Mardeya: (interrupting) Speaking of votes, we need to talk about election interference. My opponent claims I rigged the last election.Prabu Palgunadi: (smirking) Did you?Prabu Jangkung Mardeya: (grinning) Of course not! I just made sure the right people counted the votes.And so, the leaders continue their circus, juggling issues like clowns juggling balls, each one trying to keep their own interests in the air.Prabu Palgunadi: (sighing) Fine, let’s talk about climate change. But only if we can agree on the rice tariffs first.Prabu Matswati: Deal. Now, about those election results…Prabu Jangkung Mardeya: (laughing) Ah, politics. It’s all just a game, isn’t it?And so, the world keeps spinning, the leaders keep juggling, and the circus goes on.""Political power is like the ship engine of a grand ship navigating the vast ocean of international relations, providing the necessary force and direction to move forward. It represents the country’s ability to make decisions, enforce laws, and project strength both domestically and internationally.Diplomacy, on the other hand, is like the ship’s rudder and sails. It allows the ship to navigate through the waters smoothly, avoiding obstacles and making strategic adjustments to the course. Diplomacy helps the country build alliances, negotiate treaties, and resolve conflicts without resorting to force.Together, political power and diplomacy ensure that the ship not only moves forward but does so in a way that maintains balance, avoids unnecessary confrontations, and reaches its desired destinations effectively," Seruni navigated to the intricate dance of political power and diplomacy."Political power refers to a country's ability to influence the behaviour of other states or actors on the international stage. It encompasses various forms, including military strength, economic capabilities, cultural influence, and the ability to project soft power.A nation's military capabilities can deter aggression, project power, and provide security assurances to allies. Countries with significant military strength, such as the United States, China, and Russia, have substantial influence because they can enforce their interests or protect allies.Economic strength allows a country to wield influence through trade, investment, and financial aid. Economically powerful countries can set global standards, influence international economic policies, and provide or withhold economic resources to achieve foreign policy objectives.Cultural soft power, such as media, entertainment, and education, can shape global perceptions and values. Nations with a strong cultural presence can influence global public opinion and promote their values and policies.A stable and well-governed nation can be a model for others, attract investments, and foster alliances. Political stability also allows a country to engage consistently in international affairs.Some countries are known for having the strongest political power. The United States is known for its powerful influence on global politics, economics, and military strength. China is a major global player with substantial economic growth and political influence. Russia is notable for its military capabilities and strategic geopolitical influence. Germany is a key player in the European Union with strong economic and political influence. The United Kingdom maintains considerable international influence through its historical ties and current political and economic power. France is known for its active role in international diplomacy and military strength. Japan is still a major economic power with important political influence in Asia.Some countries are often seen as having weaker political influence on the global stage due to various factors such as economic challenges, political instability, or limited diplomatic reach. Somalia struggles with ongoing conflict, political instability, and weak governance, which significantly limits its international influence. The prolonged civil war and international sanctions have severely weakened the political influence of Syria. South Sudan faces serious challenges due to internal conflict, economic instability, and political fragmentation. The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis have greatly diminished Yemen's political power and influence. Political instability, economic challenges, and natural disasters have hindered Haiti's ability to exert influence internationally. Persistent conflict and weak governance have limited the Central African Republic's political influence. These countries often face internal challenges that impact their ability to engage effectively on the global stage.Diplomacy is the practice of managing international relations and negotiating on behalf of a country. It involves dialogue, negotiation, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Through diplomacy, countries establish and maintain relationships with other states. Diplomatic engagements can be bilateral (between two countries) or multilateral (involving multiple countries, often through international organizations like the United Nations). Effective diplomacy helps secure alliances, trade agreements, and international support.Diplomacy is crucial for preventing and resolving conflicts. Diplomatic negotiations can lead to treaties, peace agreements, and international cooperation. Successful diplomacy enhances a country's reputation as a peacebuilder and mediator. Participation in international organizations allows countries to shape global norms and rules. Diplomats negotiate treaties, conventions, and regulations that govern international behavior, such as trade agreements, environmental protocols, and human rights conventions.Soft power, the ability to attract and co-opt rather than coerce, is a key component of diplomacy. Public diplomacy involves promoting a country's image and values abroad, fostering goodwill, and building networks of influence.According to the latest Global Diplomacy Index, some of the countries with the strongest diplomatic networks are China, which leads in Africa, East Asia, and the Pacific with the largest number of diplomatic posts worldwide; the United States, which dominates in the Americas, Europe, and South Asia, with a vast network of embassies and consulates; Turkey has rapidly expanded its diplomatic presence, reflecting its growing influence; Japan is significant diplomatic player, especially in Asia; France is known for its extensive diplomatic reach and active role in international affairs; Russia maintains a strong diplomatic network despite recent geopolitical challenges; United Kingdom continues to have a robust diplomatic presence globally; Germany is a key player in European and global diplomacy. These countries invest heavily in diplomacy to maintain and expand their influence on the global stage.Indonesia’s political power on the global stage is characterized by its strategic diplomacy and regional influence. As the largest country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia plays a pivotal role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It uses this platform to promote cooperation, development, democracy, security, peace, and stability in the region. However, Indonesia’s influence is limited by its domestic challenges and the need for stronger leadership within ASEAN.Historically, Indonesia has adhered to a 'free and active' foreign policy, avoiding alignment with major powers and instead focusing on regional and global peace. With the world’s fourth-largest population and a growing economy, Indonesia focuses on economic diplomacy to attract foreign investment, promote trade relations, and strengthen economic ties. While Indonesia’s economic diplomacy is praised for attracting foreign investment and strengthening trade relations, corruption and bureaucratic inefficiencies can hinder its effectiveness.Indonesia has played roles in mediating regional conflicts, such as the Cambodia-Thailand conflict over the Preah Vihear temple, and encouraging political reforms in Myanmar. Scholars often classify Indonesia as a middle power in the Asia-Pacific region due to its geographic and demographic size, rising capabilities, and diplomatic initiatives, however, its foreign policy can sometimes lack coherence and assertiveness, particularly in addressing global issues beyond the region. Surveys in 2021 indicate that Indonesians have grown distrustful of major powers like the United States and China. This sentiment can influence Indonesia’s foreign policy decisions and its interactions with these countries.Indonesia is often commended for its political stability, especially given its diverse population and history of conflicts. However, issues such as money politics, vote buying, and corruption, undermine good governance and democratic consolidation.Political power and diplomacy are interrelated and mutually reinforcing. A country's political power enhances its diplomatic leverage, while effective diplomacy can enhance or preserve political power. Together, they enable countries to pursue their interests, influence global events, and contribute to shaping the international order. Political power and diplomacy are essential for international influence because they determine a nation's ability to shape global affairs, protect its interests, and contribute to global governance.Jeremy Black, a historian known for his extensive work on international relations and military history, explores the historical development and key concepts of geopolitics, examining how nations and leaders use power and strategy to achieve dominance. Geopolitics is generally understood as the study of the effects of geography (human and physical) on international politics and international relations. It encompasses the analysis of strategic factors like location, resources, and physical terrain, alongside cultural, economic, and demographic considerations. Geopolitics seeks to understand how these factors influence the power and behaviour of states, the competition for territory, and the broader international system.Black discusses geopolitics by examining the importance of geographical features, such as mountains, rivers, and seas, in shaping the strategic considerations of states (strategic geography); how states use their geographical position and resources to exert influence and control over regions (power and control); the historical evolution of geopolitical thought and practice, including the work of key thinkers and the implementation of their ideas; and modern geopolitical challenges and strategies, including the role of technology, globalized trade, and environmental concerns (contemporary issues).Black explores how ancient civilisations, such as the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Chinese, understood and utilised geographical features for defence and expansion. The strategic importance of rivers, mountains, and deserts shaped their territorial ambitions and defensive strategies. The Greeks and Romans contributed significantly to early geopolitical thought. Thucydides' analysis of the Peloponnesian War and the Roman Empire's strategic use of its vast road networks and natural boundaries are early geopolitical considerations.During the Middle Ages, geopolitical thought was influenced by the feudal system, religious authority, and the fragmentation of power. The Crusades and the Reconquista are examples of how geography and religious motivations intertwined in geopolitical actions. The Renaissance brought a renewed interest in classical knowledge and the expansion of European powers. Thinkers like Niccolò Machiavelli emphasized the pragmatic use of power and the importance of territorial control. The Age of Exploration expanded European geopolitical horizons, leading to the colonization of the Americas, Africa, and Asia.The 19th century saw the rise of European imperialism, driven by the need for resources, markets, and strategic advantages. This period marked the formalization of geopolitical thought, with thinkers like Halford Mackinder and Alfred Mahan developing influential theories.The interwar period and World War II in the 20th century saw the practical application of geopolitical theories. Nazi Germany's expansionist policies, based on ideas like Lebensraum (living space), and the geopolitical strategies of the Allies and Axis powers were significant. The Cold War era introduced the bipolar world order dominated by the United States and the Soviet Union. Geopolitical thought during this time focused on containment, deterrence, and the ideological struggle between capitalism and communism. The concept of spheres of influence and strategic alliances, such as NATO and the Warsaw Pact, were central to Cold War geopolitics.The collapse of the Soviet Union and the emergence of a unipolar world led to new geopolitical challenges. Black likely explores the rise of regional powers, the impact of globalization, and the re-emergence of multipolarity with the rise of China and other nations. Contemporary geopolitical thought has evolved to include considerations of non-state actors, cyber warfare, climate change, and energy security. The influence of technology and information in shaping geopolitical strategies is also a key focus.Black also explores the concept of dominance in the context of geopolitics. Dominance generally refers to the power or influence that one state or group of states exerts over others. It involves a nation's ability to impose its will on others, shape the international system according to its interests, and maintain a superior position in the global hierarchy. Black discusses the tension between realpolitik—a pragmatic approach to politics focused on power and national interest—and moral considerations. Realpolitik often prioritizes strategic goals and power over ethical concerns, leading to actions that may be morally questionable. The quest for dominance often involves undermining the sovereignty of smaller or weaker states. The pursuit of dominance can lead to serious human suffering, including displacement, loss of life, and the destruction of communities. Black considers the ethical responsibility of dominant powers in mitigating these negative consequences and addressing humanitarian concerns. Geopolitical strategies often involve difficult moral trade-offs, such as choosing between pursuing strategic interests and upholding human rights.Black examines how ideology and international norms influence the pursuit of global dominance and stresses the importance of ethical considerations in this context. Ideologies, such as nationalism, religion, or political philosophies, can importantly shape a nation's quest for dominance. States often pursue power and influence based on ideological beliefs that justify or motivate their actions. For example, during the Cold War, ideological competition between capitalism and communism drove the strategies of the United States and the Soviet Union. Similarly, colonial powers often justified their expansionist policies by promoting their own cultural or civilizational values as superior. Black explores how these ideological motivations can both inspire and complicate the pursuit of dominance, influencing not only the strategies employed but also the ethical frameworks within which these strategies are pursued.International norms and ethical standards play a crucial role in shaping how states approach the pursuit of dominance. These norms, established through treaties, conventions, and international organizations, set boundaries on acceptable behaviour and aim to promote global stability and human rights. Black emphasizes the need for states to adhere to these norms and uphold ethical standards, even when pursuing their strategic goals. For instance, the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter, such as respect for sovereignty and non-interference, serve as guidelines for how states should conduct their foreign policies. Black argues that maintaining accountability and respecting international norms are essential for ensuring that the pursuit of dominance does not lead to unjust practices or undermine the global order.Overall, Black underscores that while the pursuit of dominance is often driven by strategic interests and ideological motivations, it must be tempered by a commitment to ethical principles and international standards to prevent harm and ensure a just and stable international system.In the previous discussion, we touched on the consequences of power in international relations according to Giulio M. Gallarotti. Gallarotti argues that while accumulating power is often seen as a means to enhance security and influence, it can paradoxically lead to insecurity. The more powerful a state becomes, the more it might provoke fear and resistance among other states, leading to balancing coalitions that seek to counter its influence. This can result in a security dilemma, where the pursuit of security by one state leads to greater insecurity overall.A serious consequence of possessing substantial power is the temptation or pressure to overextend. Powerful states may overcommit to international interventions, military engagements, or diplomatic efforts beyond their capabilities or interests. This overreach can drain resources, weaken the state’s domestic foundations, and lead to strategic blunders.Gallarotti discusses the illusion of control that often accompanies power. States may overestimate their ability to control outcomes in international affairs, leading to hubris and strategic miscalculations. This illusion can be particularly dangerous in complex global systems where many variables are beyond any single state's control. Powerful states can become entangled in dependencies and relationships that limit their freedom of action. For example, alliances and partnerships may require commitments that bind a state's decision-making. Additionally, maintaining a vast array of international interests can create obligations and entrap the state in conflicts or crises that it would prefer to avoid.Power can generate resistance and backlash, both domestically and internationally. Domestically, the pursuit of power can lead to neglect of public welfare, causing social unrest. Internationally, other states or non-state actors may actively resist a powerful state's policies, leading to conflicts or strained relations. This resistance can undermine the powerful state's objectives and reduce its influence.States often misinterpret the actions and intentions of other states, especially when those states are powerful. This misperception can lead to overreactions, such as unnecessary military buildups or preemptive strikes, which can exacerbate tensions and lead to conflict. Gallarotti argues that there are diminishing returns to power. As states accumulate more power, the additional benefits they gain from further power increases become marginal. In contrast, the costs and risks associated with maintaining or expanding power can escalate, making the powerless advantageous and more burdensome.Gallarotti highlights that power without legitimacy can be counterproductive. States that wield power in ways that are perceived as illegitimate or unjust can face resistance, both from other states and from within their own populations. Legitimacy is crucial for sustaining influence and achieving long-term goals.Aharon Klieman provides contributions from various regional specialists and country experts, addressing important regional power conflicts and geopolitical zones of contention critical for future international stability. They discuss how great powers engage in balancing acts to counter each other’s influence. This involves forming alliances, engaging in strategic partnerships, and sometimes direct competition to maintain or alter the balance of power. Regional great powers often project their influence through regional conflicts. Economic sanctions, trade agreements, and military posturing are common tools used by great powers to assert dominance and influence.Klieman offers several suggestions for understanding and navigating the shifting dynamics of global power. Countries should develop flexible strategies that account for the emergence of multiple significant global players. This involves adapting to a world where power is more distributed and where traditional unipolar dominance is less viable.Strengthening diplomatic efforts and building multilateral partnerships are crucial for managing rivalries and conflicts. Engaging in dialogue and negotiations can help mitigate tensions and foster cooperation among great powers. Contributing to the strengthening and reform of international institutions can help manage global challenges and conflicts. Effective institutions can provide frameworks for cooperation and conflict resolution.Understanding regional specificities and local power structures is essential for navigating global politics. Great powers should pay attention to regional trends and conflicts, as these often influence broader international relations.Utilizing economic power and technological advancements can enhance a nation's global influence. Investing in innovation and maintaining economic competitiveness are critical for sustaining a strong position in a rebalancing world.Great powers should work together to address transnational issues such as climate change, pandemics, and terrorism. Collaborative approaches can lead to more effective solutions and reduce the potential for conflict. The rebalancing of global power introduces uncertainty and unpredictability. Nations should be prepared for unexpected changes and be agile in their responses to shifting circumstances.These suggestions aim to guide navigating the complexities of international affairs in a world where traditional power structures are evolving.We have discussed the important meaning of ‘political power and diplomacy’ as key features of international influence. In the next discussion, we will delve into the ‘cultural influence’ on international impact. Biidhnillah.”
Citations & References:
- Jeremy Black, Geopolitics and the Quest for Dominance, 2016, Indiana University Press
- Aharon Klieman (Ed.), Great Powers and Geopolitics: International Affairs in a Rebalancing World, 2015, Springer
